From Bratislava, where she is participating in the security forum, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, presented a new initiative for the development of the Western Balkans region.
"It is a new growth plan for the Western Balkans. We want to build on the progress achieved in recent months," said Von der Leyen.
In her speech, she stated that the EU intends to send some of the benefits of EU membership to the people of the Western Balkans right now. The new EU plan consists of four points.
"First, to bring the Western Balkans closer to the EU Common Market. Second, to deepen regional economic integration. Thirdly, to speed up the fundamental reforms and fourthly, to increase the pre-accession funds", said Von der Leyen.
The President of the EC said that this is the new approach of the European Union.
"We don't just ask our partners to take new steps towards us. Also, we also take a big step towards them", she emphasized, adding that the common goal is to accelerate the integration of the Western Balkan countries into the EU.
"In these troubled times, this four-point plan is the right offer for the Western Balkans," she said.
"The Western Balkans and the Union are getting closer and closer. This is the opportunity to seize the moment, to create a more united Europe", said Von der Leyen.